Promote regional migration but not at expense of city-based jobs

The Federal Government’s focus on addressing congestion in Australia’s major cities has been welcomed by Australia’s largest and most representative business network, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

However, the Australian Chamber has cautioned the Federal Government against putting a brake on jobs growth in cities by further migration restrictions.

“There is no doubt we need better infrastructure planning to cope with growth and alleviate congestion,” Australian Chamber CEO, James Pearson, said today, in response to a speech from the Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population, Alan Tudge.

“But, we must ensure there is a thorough understanding of the key factors that drive population growth, before implementing policies that have the capacity to negatively impact jobs growth and the economy.

“There has been a lot of concern about population growth in the cities, but jobs in cities are also growing at a faster pace.”